ARL facing record number of animals in its care

Animal Rescue League of Iowa officials are asking for the public's help in reducing the number of animals in its care.

According to a press release sent today, the ARL currently is providing care to more than 1,200 animals, a number that grows each day.

"While we have had a record number of adoptions and great success with reuniting lost pets with their owners this summer, we continue to receive dozens of animals every single day," Tom Colvin, executive director for the ARL, said in the release. "We are doing everything we can to keep up with that number of animals and are getting them into homes as fast as we can, but we really need the public's help."

Starting today through Sunday, the ARL is offering $25 dog and cat adoptions at any of its Greater Des Moines locations. It's also encouraging anyone interested in fostering a pet to do so.

ARL officials are also urging owners to keep their pets, if possible. For those considering surrendering their pets, the ARL offers a variety of free services designed to ease potential burdens on owners, including free spaying and neutering, behavioral counseling, food and litter and more. Donations of cat and dog food, cat litter, and funds to help underwrite the cost of the medical care provided for each animal are always needed as well. Visit the ARL's websitefor a list of needed items.